Christine Chilcott has been appointed new executive director of The Academy of Alameda, a free, public charter school serving kindergarten through eighth-grade students.

The appointment was made on Friday, Jan. 14. Chilcott tenure as executive director starts on July 1. Chilcott, an Alameda community member, currently serves as chief executive officer of Girls Inc. of the Island City. She has been with the organization for more than 10 years. Chilcott oversaw the creation of several program partnerships with Alameda Unified School District, including a program to offer in-person, all-day programming for vulnerable students last school year during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“As a member of this community, I am thrilled to be chosen as the new Executive Director of The Academy of Alameda.” said Chilcott. “Following a wonderful executive director, Matt Huxley, I know I am entering a welcoming, supportive environment and I look forward to the opportunity to take the Academy to its next level of success.”

Huxely has held the executive position since 2011. Until the position takeover, Huxely will work with Chilcott to ensure a smooth and effective transition.

“I have such a high degree of respect for Christine both personally and professionally,” said Huxley. “I believe that she possesses the leadership skills and qualities to lead The Academy of Alameda to an even higher level and closer to its mission and envisioned future. I look forward to working with her collaboratively over the next few months so that there is a smooth and effective transition.”

Last year, Huxley informed the school’s board of directors, staff, and families of his intent to retire at the end of the 2021-22 school year. The board hired a national search firm after soliciting stakeholder input for a new executive director. An extensive multi-state search for his replacement was launched last year.

“After an extremely rigorous process, we found the right leader from within Alameda,” said David Forbes, The Academy of Alameda Board President. “Christine has a proven track record of leading organizations, and the board and I are thrilled that she will bring her talents and energy to the Academy.”

Chilcott began her career in education as the after-school program director for Riverside Elementary School and taught sixth and seventh grade math during summer school. She is currently earning an Ed.D in Educational Leadership at San Francisco State University.

The Academy of Alameda is located at 401 Pacific Ave. The school has an enrollment of 770 students, according to a school press release. The Academy of Alameda is composed of two public charters — the Academy of Alameda Elementary School and the Academy of Alameda Middle School. It serves one of the most diverse student populations in the state and is
committed to providing all students a world-class education.

The Academy of Alameda is currently enrolling students for the 2022-23 school year. Families can learn more at www.aoaschools.org.